Creamy Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs are the kind of dinner that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with boring chicken. One skillet, a handful of pantry ingredients, and boom — you’ve got tender, golden-browned thighs in a sauce that’s rich, tangy, sweet, and downright addictive. The first time I made this, I didn’t expect it to become a staple. But my husband declared it “a keeper” with the first bite.
Now it’s our go-to when we want something comforting but quick. Whether you’re a fan of mustard chicken thighs or just craving something new, this dish never disappoints.
Let’s dig into this flavorful favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs
It’s Dinner-Table Approved
This dish hits all the right notes: crispy seared chicken thighs, a luscious creamy sauce with mustard and brown sugar, and just enough garlic to make your kitchen smell like magic. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to serve to guests.
Want more flavor-packed chicken ideas? Try my black pepper chicken, another dinner hero with bold taste.
Quick and Minimal Ingredients
You probably have everything in your kitchen already. Chicken thighs? Check. Dijon mustard? Check. Brown sugar, cream, garlic, seasoning? All pantry staples. It’s a true “grab what you’ve got” kind of meal, no fancy ingredients required.
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Creamy Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs
Creamy brown sugar Dijon chicken thighs; a quick and flavor-packed skillet dinner made with pantry staples. Golden crispy skin, tangy mustard, sweet caramel notes, it’s your new go-to chicken recipe.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
3 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp brown sugar
¾ cup heavy cream
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken skin-side down for 5–6 minutes. Flip and cook another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 min).
4. Add Dijon mustard and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in heavy cream. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Return chicken to skillet. Spoon sauce over chicken. Simmer 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer for best results; internal temp should reach 165°F.
Swap cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh with sauce
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients are simple but deliver maximum flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs | 6 pieces |
| Dijon mustard | 3 tbsp |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | ¾ cup |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
Want another satisfying dinner? This creamy turkey stroganoff also delivers comfort food vibes in under 30 minutes.
How to Make Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs
Step-by-Step Simplicity
- Sear the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season well. Heat oil in a skillet and sear thighs skin-side down for 5–6 minutes. Flip and cook another 5 minutes. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard and brown sugar. Add heavy cream and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Bring It Together: Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over each piece. Let it simmer gently for another 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
If you’re into skillet meals, this cowboy butter chicken linguine is a must-try, full of creamy, zesty flavor.
Tips and Easy Variations
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Chicken
- Always pat the chicken dry before searing. It helps create a crispy skin.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F.
- Let the sauce simmer gently; boiling may cause the cream to split.
Want a fun twist on classic comfort food? Check out this chicken and sweet potato rice bowl for a nutritious upgrade.
Fun Recipe Twists
- Swap chicken thighs for boneless breasts or drumsticks.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
- Stir in a handful of spinach for color and nutrients.
Need a crowd-pleaser side dish? Pair with creamy garlic baby potatoes for the ultimate dinner combo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep an eye on cook time; breasts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Does this dish freeze well?
It does, but the sauce texture may change slightly. For best results, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make this in the oven?
Absolutely! Sear the chicken first, then finish baking at 375°F for about 25 minutes.
What sides go best with mustard chicken?
Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or buttery noodles all complement the sauce well. Or try crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta for a creamy pairing.
Conclusion
This creamy brown sugar Dijon chicken isn’t just another weeknight dinner, it’s that magical kind of dish that feels special but doesn’t ask too much of you in the kitchen. Whether you call it mustard chicken thighs, brown sugar Dijon chicken, or simply “that amazing chicken dish,” one thing’s certain: it’s bound to become a regular at your table.
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